GlaxoSmithKline's HIV drug unit, ViiV Healthcare, has placed a risky development bet on two-drug regimens. But on Monday, the company announced some data that so far affirms its approach.
Two phase 3 studies showed that a combo of GSK's dolutegravir—already marketed solo as quick-launching Tivicay—and Johnson & Johnson compound rilpivirine measured up to three- or four-drug cocktails in the efficacy department, the company said. Glaxo will roll out more details at a medical meeting next year, and it's also planning to apply for regulatory approval in 2017.
GSK's approach is a departure from the three-med combos rival Gilead Sciences is cooking up, and some industry watchers say a two-drug success could help the British pharma giant poach share from its market-leading nemesis. Taking one drug out of the picture reduces the side-effect burden patients bear, and it may also result in cost savings potential payers like the sound of.
